OSCAR PETERSON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 FROM 21:00
On August 15, his 100th birth anniversary, Stingray DJAZZ celebrates one of Canada’s most revered musicians: titanic jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. His stunning virtuosity, speed, and swing inspire awe in all who hear or see him play. From 21:00, Stingray DJAZZ presents three exceptional concerts that illustrate Peterson's enormous talents. First, a vintage 1957 Jazz at the Philharmonic concert from the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam features the classic Oscar Peterson Trio (with guitarist Herb Ellis and bassist Ray Brown), later joined by trumpeter Roy Eldridge, drummer Jo Jones, and violinist Stuff Smith. Peterson shows his brilliant accompaniment when vocalist Ella Fitzgerald takes the stage, culminating in an all-star jam session. Then, a 1974 Grand Gala du Disque appearance from Amsterdam sees Peterson in performance with drummer Kenny Clarke and bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen, joined by legendary French violinist Stéphane Grappelli. Finally, a 1979 North Sea Jazz Festival duo concert with bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen is a pure distillation of the pianist’s peerless technique and emotional profundity—the very qualities that cemented his legendary status. From his prolific recording career spanning over half a century and collaborations with icons like Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie and Stéphane Grappelli to his compositions and advocacy for racial equality, Oscar Peterson's impact is immeasurable. Join Stingray DJAZZ on August 15 from 21:00 to celebrate the enduring legacy of the man Duke Ellington praised as the 'Maharajah of the keyboard'!
Oscar Peterson Trio "C-Jam Blues"
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 AT 21:00
Embark on a remarkable journey through the world of jazz piano as we showcase some of the most iconic and influential pianists in history. Revel in Oscar Peterson’s virtuosity as his trio plays “C-Jam Blues” in Holbaek, Denmark, on May 2, 1964.
Four Pianists - Jazz à Vienne
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 AT 21:15
‘Jazz a Vienne’ is one of the world's most prestigious jazz festivals. Ever since 1981 it has attracted leading jazz artists, with many of them playing return engagements. Unsurprisingly, the festival's 2012 edition did not fall short of expectations: the lineup was filled with the biggest names in music. Among them were four legendary pianists united by the shared sense of making art: Mulgrew Miller, Benny Green, Kenny Barron, Eric Reed. Flawless piano technique, amazing musicianship and swing - the performance for true jazz lovers.
Andy Milne and Unison (US) - jazzahead! 2024 interview & showcase
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 AT 22:20
Annual trade fair, exhibition, and festival jazzahead! is one of the international jazz community’s most important events. Hosted in Bremen, Germany, jazzahead! brings together musicians, bookers, agents, organizers, jazz experts, and music enthusiasts at the world’s largest jazz event. In 2024, jazzahead! paid special attention to the jazz scene of the Netherlands and invited over forty jazz acts to perform over the course of three days. Among the ensembles presenting themselves at jazzahead! 2024 is American pianist and composer Andy Milne’s trio Unison. With over three decades of experience, Milne, a protégé of legendary jazz pianist Oscar Peterson, has collaborated with notable figures including Ravi Coltrane, Andrew Cyrille, Sekou Sundiata, Avery Brooks, and Cassandra Wilson. Beyond jazz, Milne is recognized for classical compositions and his contributions to film and television scores. At jazzahead!, Milne’s trio Unison delves into the fusion of texture and groove. Andy Milne (piano) appears with Andrew Peck (bass) and Nate Winn (drums).
